A Travel Price Comparison for Georgia Blue Ridge vs. Saint Simons for Food, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Blue Ridge or Saint Simons?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Blue Ridge and Saint Simons. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Blue Ridge

Blue Ridge is a charming, outdoorsy, and historic town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Saint Simons

Saint Simons is a relaxing, laid back, and scenic island. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Blue Ridge and Saint Simons: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Blue Ridge or Saint Simons?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Saint Simons. Although Blue Ridge and Saint Simons are both popular with visitors, Saint Simons has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Saint Simons is more popular for its resorts and beaches, while Blue Ridge is known for its nightlife and hiking. Saint Simons is more touristy than Blue Ridge and is popular for its beaches, charter fishing, and golf courses. It is also home to East Beach. Blue Ridge is popular for its beautiful mountain setting, miles of hiking trails, and small town atmosphere.

How is Blue Ridge different from Saint Simons?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Saint Simons and Blue Ridge. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Blue Ridge or Saint Simons?

Spend time exploring the decent sights and museums in either Blue Ridge or Saint Simons.

While most people don't head to Blue Ridge specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. While you don't immediately think of museums in the area, there are a couple. The Dahlonega Gold Museum gives information on the gold rush and mining industry in town. In nearby Tennessee, Ducktown Basin Museum is a historic mine site that is open for tours.

Saint Simons offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. St. Simons Lighthouse is a highlight for many visitors. There's a maritime museum attached to the lighthouse as well. Fort Frederica National Monument is another historic site that is worth a visit.

Is the Food Better in Blue Ridge or Saint Simons? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Blue Ridge and Saint Simons can be difficult as they are each superb in their own way.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Blue Ridge. You'll find plenty of small town restaurants serving local dishes like barbecue, trout, and biscuits with gravy. Southern food is popular, but you'll also find plenty of breweries and wineries in the area. Head downtown for an assortment of options that include southern, vegan, and even international flavors.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Saint Simons. There are more than 70 restaurants on the island that range from cafes to fine dining. You can enjoy an eggs benedict for brunch, crab cakes for lunch, and shrimp and grits for dinner. Many restaurants take advantage of the mild climate by offering outdoor seating. There are also several dessert places with ice cream or donuts.

Is Blue Ridge or Saint Simons Better for Nightlife?

Blue Ridge is a popular place for nightlife. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

Blue Ridge has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Head downtown for a mix of breweries, bars, and clubs where you'll find live music and a casual meal.

Saint Simons doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are several family-friendly bars with laid back atmospheres around town, but if you're looking for a wild night out, there aren't a lot of places to go.

Is Blue Ridge or Saint Simons Better for Resorts?

Saint Simons is a good destination for its luxury resorts. However, Blue Ridge is not a resort destination.

Saint Simons has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are a handful of nice resorts with pools and beachfront settings.

Blue Ridge is not a resort destination.

Is Blue Ridge or Saint Simons Better for Beaches?

Saint Simons is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Blue Ridge is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Saint Simons for it's beautiful beaches. There's golden sand and a beautiful setting. Visitors enjoy swimming or walking along the coastline. You'll also find piers and playgrounds. East Beach is one of the most popular.

Blue Ridge is not a beach destination.

Is Blue Ridge or Saint Simons Better for Hiking?

Blue Ridge is a great destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Blue Ridge. There are miles of hiking trails in the area that take you to waterfalls and viewpoints. The starting point of the Appalachian Trail is also nearby, and another popular trail is the Benton MacKaye Trail. Options range from beginner to expert with everything in between.

Many people include a hike when visiting Saint Simons. There are several parks and natural areas where you can enjoy a walk in nature. Cannon's Point Preserve has a nice trail system. Other trails on the island include John Gilbert Nature Trail, Earth Day Nature Trail, and Wanderer Memorial Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Blue Ridge or Saint Simons?

Shoppers can find a variety of superb stores in both Blue Ridge and Saint Simons.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Blue Ridge. You'll find artisan shops, art galleries, and boutique clothing vendors. Many places are concentrated in the charming downtown area, which is fun to explore for a day or two.

Saint Simons is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. You'll find a good concentration of gift shops and clothing boutiques on the island. Antiquing is also popular. Head to Pier Village for a nice mix of shops.

Is Blue Ridge or Saint Simons Better for Families?

Both Blue Ridge and Saint Simons are superb family-friendly destinations.

Blue Ridge is a very family-friendly destination. Kids who enjoy hiking and playing outdoors will have fun here. There are waterfall hikes, fruit picking farms, and plenty of playgrounds. There's also a scenic railway and lots of places to sample treats.

Saint Simons is a very kid-friendly town. The beaches are kid-friendly and there are many family-friendly restaurants in town. There's also the St. Simons Lighthouse, minigolf, and kayaking, as well as Neptune Park Fun Zone.

Is Blue Ridge or Saint Simons Better for Couples?

Blue Ridge and Saint Simons both superb destinations for a couple.

Blue Ridge makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. If you're looking for a cozy retreat where you can relax in a cabin, take long walks through nature, and enjoy local food, then this is your place. There are plenty of bed and breakfasts, vacation rentals, and rustic cabins with fireplaces and simple pleasures. If you want to escape it all then the mountains are the place to be.

Couples visit Saint Simons frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are romantic restaurants, beautiful beaches, and nice hotels. Sunset walks on the beach or a round of golf all make this a favorite couple's destination.

Is Blue Ridge or Saint Simons Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Blue Ridge is a great destination for backpackers. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Blue Ridge. There are a number of campgrounds in the area as well as plenty of hikes that backpackers will enjoy. Nearby you'll also find the start of the famed Appalachian Trail.

Saint Simons is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are campgrounds in the area that offer access to the island.

Is Blue Ridge or Saint Simons Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Neither Blue Ridge or Saint Simons offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Blue Ridge. There's no real public transportation system in the area.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Saint Simons. While there are trolley tours available, public transportation is basically non-existent.

Is Blue Ridge or Saint Simons a more walkable city?

Blue Ridge and Saint Simons are good when it comes to walkability.

Blue Ridge is somewhat walkable. While the downtown area is relatively walkable, if you want to hike and get out in nature, you'll need to have a car.

Saint Simons is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown area is walkable, but to access much of what is available, you'll want to have a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Blue Ridge Worth Visiting? and Is Saint Simons Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Saint Simons or Blue Ridge?

How long in Blue Ridge or Saint Simons?

It's fun to spend time in either Blue Ridge or Saint Simons. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Blue Ridge due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Blue Ridge, and 2-4 days is enough time in Saint Simons.

Families should spend more time in Saint Simons than Blue Ridge. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Saint Simons, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Blue Ridge than Saint Simons if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Blue Ridge.

One day in Blue Ridge or Saint Simons?

Blue Ridge is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

With shopping and food around the laid back island of Saint Simons, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Blue Ridge or Saint Simons?

Blue Ridge is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

With food and shopping around the small town destination of Saint Simons, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this island.

Five days in Blue Ridge or Saint Simons?

Blue Ridge might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Saint Simons, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Blue Ridge or Saint Simons?

Blue Ridge is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Saint Simons is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, and The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Blue Ridge and Saint Simons, we can see that Saint Simons is more expensive. And not only is Blue Ridge much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Blue Ridge would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Blue Ridge and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Saint Simons would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Saint Simons than you might in Blue Ridge.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Blue Ridge Expensive? and Is Saint Simons Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Blue Ridge or Saint Simons?

Saint Simons has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Blue Ridge. When comparing the sizes of Blue Ridge and Saint Simons, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Blue Ridge or Saint Simons?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Blue Ridge or Saint Simons in the Summer?

Both Saint Simons and Blue Ridge during the summer are popular places to visit. The hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Blue Ridge this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Saint Simons for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Blue Ridge is around the same temperature as Saint Simons in the summer. The daily temperature in Blue Ridge averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Saint Simons fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

In Saint Simons, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Blue Ridge. In the summer, Blue Ridge often gets less sunshine than Saint Simons. Blue Ridge gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint Simons receives 286 hours of full sun.

Saint Simons gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Blue Ridge. Blue Ridge usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Saint Simons. Blue Ridge gets 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain, while Saint Simons receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Blue Ridge or Saint Simons in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Blue Ridge and Saint Simons. Many travelers come to Blue Ridge for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Saint Simons in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Blue Ridge is cooler than Saint Simons. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Blue Ridge in October average around 63°F (17°C), and Saint Simons averages at about 70°F (21°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint Simons this time of the year. In Blue Ridge, it's very sunny this time of the year. Blue Ridge usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Saint Simons during autumn. Blue Ridge gets 211 hours of sunny skies, while Saint Simons receives 214 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Blue Ridge usually receives around the same amount of rain as Saint Simons. Blue Ridge gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Saint Simons receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Blue Ridge or Saint Simons in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Blue Ridge as well as Saint Simons. Many visitors come to Blue Ridge in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Saint Simons for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Blue Ridge can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Blue Ridge is generally much colder than Saint Simons. Daily temperatures in Blue Ridge average around 40°F (5°C), and Saint Simons fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

In the winter, Blue Ridge often gets less sunshine than Saint Simons. Blue Ridge gets 145 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint Simons receives 191 hours of full sun.

Blue Ridge receives a lot of rain in the winter. Blue Ridge usually gets more rain in January than Saint Simons. Blue Ridge gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Saint Simons receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Blue Ridge or Saint Simons in the Spring?

Both Saint Simons and Blue Ridge are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Blue Ridge for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Saint Simons because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Blue Ridge is cooler than Saint Simons in the spring. The daily temperature in Blue Ridge averages around 62°F (17°C) in April, and Saint Simons fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

It's quite sunny in Saint Simons. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Blue Ridge. Blue Ridge usually receives less sunshine than Saint Simons during spring. Blue Ridge gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Saint Simons receives 285 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Blue Ridge. In April, Blue Ridge usually receives more rain than Saint Simons. Blue Ridge gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Saint Simons receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Saint Simons and Blue Ridge